What to Ask at an Open House

So you’re in the market to buy a home and see several open houses you’d like to attend this weekend. Be sure to make the most of your time in the home by having your questions answered by the listing agent. We’ve compiled a list of important questions of what to ask at an open house.

Why are the sellers moving?

Truth be told, you may not get a straight answer on this one, but it’s good to ask anyway. Doing so can give you some insight into the sellers’ motivation, which can be a powerful tool if you decide to make an offer. If, for example, the agent tells you that the sellers are moving for a new job, then you know that they likely have a deadline to meet in their move and may be more flexible on price.

You’ll also want to listen for any hesitancy on the agent’s part. While hemming and hawing isn’t necessarily a guarantee that there are problems with the house, it’s a red flag. If this happens to you, tread carefully. Be sure to ask follow-up questions and read over any paperwork until you have a true sense of the home’s condition.

Is the neighborhood good for families?

A discussion about the neighborhood is a good time to ask about area resources and attractions, as well as cost of living:

What are the average utility costs?

Older houses tend to be less energy efficient, and can come with heftier utility bills than you’d expect. On the other hand, the owners may have a installed top-of-the-line HVAC system, put in double-paned windows, and invested in other energy-saving upgrades. The listing agent will know, or be able to find out, the average monthly cost for utilities. It’s a good idea to ask for a typical monthly cost in the winter and in the summer, so you can compare how much the energy use might fluctuate seasonally.

What renovations have been done?

Buyers should understand the property’s renovation history. This question gives you a broader picture of the home’s health—knowing the kitchen and appliances are new can take a weight off your shoulder. Beware of an over-renovated house: While it might mean the previous owners simply love their HGTV, but it also may spell trouble with the home’s bones.

Inquire what major improvements were completed during the owner’s tenure to get a complete picture of needs that could arise.

How many offers are on the table?

Your desire to know the demand for a particular property is natural and completely justified. And there is a tricky thing about it: if there are other offers, chances are good you’ll know it without even asking. Landlords are big fans of bidding wars, as the trend gives them a chance to make more money. When they tell you that others are interested in a property you like, they usually want you to offer more.

If you’d like more information on one of our weekend open houses, contact an ARC agent today!